Linux kernelUpdated: 12/20/2024 by Computer HopeThe Linux kernel is the foundation of any Linux-based operating system. It represents the core of Linux distributions for servers and desktop computers. It's also
However, a kernel rootkit laden with bugs is easier to detect as it leaves a trail for anti-rootkit or antivirus software. These rootkit types have been used to create devastating attacks, including: NTRootkit: One of the first malicious rootkits created, which targeted the Windows OS. ...
While they all have the Linux kernel in common, various Linux distributions build their own operating systems on top of the basic open-source foundation. Linux distributions, referred to as “distros,” boast a range of backgrounds and features. Ubuntu is the world’s most popular free OS and...
Kernel Security & Protection The kernel also protects the hardware. If there is no protection, any program will be able to carry out any task on the computer, including crashing your computer, corrupting data, etc. In modern-day computers, security is implemented on the hardware level. For ex...
Add kernel and hardware rootkit protection. Kernel integrity checks can be implemented to foil a hacker's prediction of the location of kernel code; KASLR (Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization) is an example. Hardware tools such as the Trusted Platform Module (Intel) and Secure Processor (AM...
Rootkit hypervisors– These rootkits exploit hardware virtualization features to gain control of a machine. This is done by bypassing the kernel and running the target operating system in a virtual machine. Hypervisors are almost impossible to detect and clean because they operate at a higher level ...
Linux kernel vs. Linux operating system A kernel is a computer program that functions as the beating heart of the OS, the system that allows users to interact with the computer’s hardware and software. In the case of the Linux OS, the Linux kernel is the code that forms the core compon...
A Linux distribution (sometimes abbreviated as “Linux distro”) is a collection of key and optional components that combine to form a complete operating system. Generally, a Linux distribution includes core components including a bootloader, a Linux kernel, an init system, daemons, a graphical se...
What is kernel-level programming in an OS? Kernel-level programming involves writing software that interacts directly with the operating system's core functions (the kernel). This type of programming requires specialized knowledge and can be used to create device drivers, security software, and other...
What is a Botnet? A botnet refers to a group of computers which have been infected by malware and have come under the control of a malicious actor. The term botnet is a portmanteau from the words robot and network and each infected device is called abot. Botnets can be designed to accomp...